Mohsin Naqvi Takes Final Call On Shan Masood’s Pakistan Captaincy Future

Mohsin Naqvi and Shan Masood [Source: AFP]

In a surprising development for Pakistan cricket fans, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Mohsin Naqvi, has reportedly taken a final call on Shan Masood's future as the Test captain.

There had been widespread speculation that the experienced batter would be removed from the role following Pakistan's disappointing performances. 

Notably, Masood's side suffered a humiliating 2-0 Test series defeat to Bangladesh on home soil, which intensified the pressure on both the captain and the team management. However, despite the mounting criticism, the PCB has reportedly decided to continue with Masood after failing to find a suitable replacement.

Shan Masood's Record As Pakistan Test Captain

Shan Masood, who was appointed Pakistan's Test captain in November 2023, has endured a difficult tenure so far. The left-handed batter has led Pakistan in 16 Tests but has managed to win only four of them.

Interestingly, Pakistan have won just one Test series under his leadership, and that victory came only after losing the opening match of the series. 

Furthermore, Masood's captaincy record places him among the least successful Test captains in the early stages of their careers. 

Meanwhile, Pakistan's performances in the ICC World Test Championship have also been disappointing. During the 2023-25 WTC cycle, Pakistan finished at the bottom of the standings, securing only five wins from 14 Tests with a win percentage of 27.98.

The struggles have continued in the ongoing 2025-27 WTC cycle as well. Pakistan are currently placed at the bottom of the table after four matches, having registered just one win and three defeats, with a points percentage of only 8.33.

Mohsin Naqvi's PCB Unable To Find A Replacement

Despite the disappointing results, according to a report by Telecom Asia, the PCB is now expected to retain Shan Masood as Test captain for the upcoming two-match Test series against West Indies. 

The report further stated that the PCB explored leadership alternatives before ultimately deciding to continue with Masood.

It is understood that Salman Ali Agha, who currently leads Pakistan's white-ball teams, declined the opportunity to take over the Test captaincy. Former captain Babar Azam also reportedly refused to return as the red-ball skipper.

"The core issue was the Test captaincy. Masood has lost 12 of the 16 Tests he has captained, but no one in the team was willing to take over. Salman Agha and Babar Azam both turned down the offer," a source told Telecom Asia Sport.

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It is also important to note that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was keen to appoint a new Test captain. 

However, after failing to identify a suitable candidate, the board has decided to continue with Shan Masood for the upcoming overseas assignments.

“Mohsin Naqvi wanted to replace Masood but could not find a suitable candidate. He will therefore continue for the two Tests in the Caribbean and the three-match series in England." The source added.

Mohammad Rizwan And Saud Shakeel Receive Positive Fitness Update

Meanwhile, Pakistan have received encouraging news ahead of their upcoming Test assignments. According to Geo Super, Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel took part in net sessions on the final day of the National Cricket Academy's red-ball camp.

Their participation is a major boost for the team as Pakistan prepare for the Test tours of the West Indies and England. Earlier reports had suggested that both players were doubtful for the series because of fitness concerns and were undergoing rehabilitation under the close supervision of the PCB's medical staff.

However, their return to training indicates that both Rizwan and Shakeel are making good progress in their recovery and are likely to be available for Pakistan's crucial red-ball assignments in the coming weeks.

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